When a property relies on a private well, it’s essential to ensure that the water is safe for drinking, cooking, and other daily uses. Unlike municipal water supplies, which are treated and monitored by city or county systems, private wells are the homeowner’s responsibility. That’s why water quality testing is so important.
Testing the water drawn from a well provides valuable insight into the presence of harmful contaminants that may not be detectable through taste, smell, or appearance. These tests are especially important during a real estate transaction, when moving into a new property, or after any plumbing or well-system changes.
What Water Quality Testing Includes
A standard water quality test involves collecting water samples directly from the property’s well system. These samples are then sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. The lab performs a range of tests, including bacteria, nitrates, pH levels, heavy metals (like lead and arsenic), and radon in some areas.
Water quality testing will detect naturally occurring substances and contaminants that may have entered the water through nearby agricultural activity, industrial runoff, or old plumbing infrastructure. In many cases, the test results will help determine whether water treatment or filtration is necessary to meet safety standards.
Why It Matters
Contaminants in well water can lead to various health issues, some of which may not appear until much later. Coliform bacteria, including E. coli, are known to cause gastrointestinal illnesses. Nitrates, which often enter the water supply through fertilizers or septic systems, pose serious risks to infants and pregnant women. Heavy metals like lead and arsenic, whether from plumbing materials or naturally occurring sources, are harmful even at low concentrations. Radon, a radioactive gas that can dissolve into groundwater, may increase the long-term risk of cancer when ingested or released into indoor air. Proper water quality testing is the only way to know if these substances are present at harmful levels.
When to Test
Water quality testing is often conducted as part of a home inspection during the sale of a property. Buyers and lenders may request it, especially for homes with private wells. However, regular testing is also recommended, even outside a real estate transaction.
Recommended times to test include:
- Annually for bacteria and nitrates
- After major plumbing work or well servicing
- If water changes in taste, color, or smell
- If there has been flooding or nearby construction
- Before installing water filtration or treatment systems
The EPA and many state agencies offer guidelines for how often to test and what parameters to include, depending on the location.
The Testing Process
The process begins with collecting samples from a tap that draws water directly from the well, before it passes through any filtration system. Proper sample collection is essential for accurate results, so in most cases, a trained professional will handle this part of the process using sterile containers and lab-supplied protocols.
Once the samples are submitted to the lab, the analysis can take 1 to 7 days, depending on the types of tests ordered. Results are usually presented in a detailed report, listing the concentration of each substance and noting whether any levels exceed health-based standards.
In cases where one or more contaminants are found, follow-up steps may include retesting, installing a water treatment system, or working with a licensed well contractor to resolve structural or source issues.
Protecting Health and Property Value
Water quality isn’t just about health; it will also impact property value. Contaminated water may make a home harder to sell, delay transactions, or result in costly repairs or system upgrades. Lenders and insurers sometimes require documentation of water testing as part of their risk assessment.
FAQs
- How often should private well water be tested?
Test for bacteria and nitrates at least once a year. Additional tests for heavy metals, radon, or other region-specific risks may be done every few years or if conditions change. - What happens if the test finds a contaminant?
Results above recommended levels may require follow-up testing or installation of a water treatment system. The specific solution depends on the type and concentration of the contaminant. - Can I collect my own water sample?
While some labs offer do-it-yourself kits, professional sampling is more reliable, especially when the results are used for real estate or legal documentation. Professionals follow strict procedures to avoid cross-contamination and ensure accurate results. - Is water testing required when buying a home with a well?
Requirements vary by lender and location, but testing is commonly requested during home purchases. Even if not required, it’s strongly recommended to ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply.
Five Stars Home Inspections offers home inspections and water quality testing to customers in the Greater Boston area. Contact us to request our services.